Come On Get Happy!

By: Heather Blanchard

It seems we’re always in search of more joy, more fun and more happiness. There are documentaries, college courses and tons of studies on what makes people happy. There’s even a movie titled Happy featuring a filmmaker (Roku Belic) who travels around the world to 14 different countries interviewing people about it. In this film, having strong interpersonal relationships and a sense of community are keys to tapping into lasting joy, along with meaningful work and time for play. 

There are a few places highlighted in his film where people live like one big family. Denmark has one of the highest percentages of co-housing communities in the world. Here, people live together and share communal and family responsibilities like daily chores and parental duties – leaving plenty of leisure time to spend together. In countries like Japan and India many villages function the same way. They care for each other, work in the community together and share meals. Living in a huge extended circle of love and support allows people to truly enjoy each day – and that’s priceless.

I was talking about this very thing with a friend from Europe who was walking around her neighborhood the other day. What struck her when we were having this conversation was that she didn’t see people out enjoying nature, getting exercise or in the joyful company of neighbors. It’s a common issue here. America is ranked the 23^rd happiest country in the world. 

Happiness held is the seed. Happiness shared is the flower. – John Harrigan

It’s clear that social support is key to happiness and health as this is reflective of the findings in all of the world’s Blue Zones. And it’s clear we love to research and seek how to find joy. Just look at the size of Self-Help sections in bookstores or libraries, or the success of movies like Happy. The question is, how can we inspire people inside of our communities to come together more here in the US? 

There’s a trend in real estate towards urbanism. More people are revitalizing and moving back into downtown cities across the country and mixed-use developments where people work, shop eat and play are popping up everywhere. Yet the fact remains that most of our time outside of micro communities like school, work or church is spent at home. And if home is where the heart is, why not cultivate a more engaging community? 

We were more connected within our communities in the summer of 2020 than we’ve been in decades. One thing Covid taught us is how valuable time with others is. When we could finally get outside and socialize safely, we embraced it. We planned cookouts and outdoor cocktail hours. We served those who needed help and took time to commune more with nature. But now it seems we’re back in our cubby holes. 

So, if you’re seeking a little more happy, find others around you who are still “jonesing” for more. More connection, love and laughter with others. More shoulders to lean on and more helping hands. You just might find that the key to happiness is in your own backyard.

Pleasure is very seldom found where it is sought. Our brightest blazes are commonly kindled by unexpected sparks. — Samuel Johnson

XOXO, Heather